Zero-Energy Architectural Patterns Applied in Hotels

Abstract

Tourism can play a major role in developing economy around the globe. In Iran, however, one of the main challenges facing tourism is the absence of needed infrastructures especially suitable residences. Therefore, building modern and well-equipped residential spaces and hotels for tourists is an undeniable obligation in this respect. In connection with this, the idea of Net-Zero Energy Buildings have come to the fore in recent years. In such buildings, the common technologies have been replaced with considerably more effective, energy-saving technologies which take advantage of renewable energies. Net-Zero Energy Buildings are designed and constructed in such way that they are able to generate their annual energy independently. In these buildings, no energy load remains unused. At the same time, surplus generated energy can be saved. The presence of abundant oil sources and public ignorance about new energy sources are the most important reasons why renewable sources of energy have not been exploited in Iran. In this study, a descriptive-analytic methodology was adopted. First, the characteristics of Net-Zero Energy Buildings were described and the feasibility of using such buildings in hot and humid climate was examined. The study aimed to approach sustainable tourism.